Firm’s plan for whisky bothy is on hold

Controversial plans to create a whisky bothy within the Cairngorms National Park have been temporarily withdrawn after dozens of objections.

Chivas Brothers had hoped to open the tourist venture near its Glenlivet Distillery to provide a more intimate setting for tastings, as well as providing overnight stays.

However, the plans attracted 42 objections from the public, including from amateur astronomers concerned about the impact light from the site would have on the night sky.

The firm has now withdrawn the plans but vowed to submit them again once it has addressed concerns of local residents.

The area surrounding Tomintoul and Glenlivet

“After consultation, we’dliketolook atresubmitting”

was designated the world’s most northerly dark sky park last year due to the lack of light pollution in the area providing clear views of the stars.

The bothy proposals led the Cairngorms National Park Authority to use its powers to assume responsibility from Moray Council to decide on the plans.

Chivas had stressed in planning documents that lighting used would be designed to minimise effect on the night sky.

Yesterday, a spokeswoman said: “We are aware of some comments from local residents regarding our application for a tasting bothy near Glenlivet Distillery.

“We take all concerns voiced by our neighbours very seriously and we have withdrawn our current application. After consultation with all parties, we’d like to look at resubmitting our application taking into consideration the concerns raised.”